Atletico failed to record a single win over their city rivals for 14 long years during the period between 1999 and 2013. However in an amazing turn of events it is Rojiblancos who have emerged as the superior side in recent meetings and have left Carlo Ancelotti and his men helpless six times this season. However it was the last fixture between the two sides which sent shockwaves all over the football world as Atletico condemned Los Blancos to a crushing 4-0 defeat.
Despite their recent dominance Atleti were at the receiving end of a heart breaking defeat when the two sides met in the Champions League last time out. The match took place on the biggest stage in the European arena when Madrid's biggest teams when head to head in the Champions League Final.
Despite of taking a lead in the first half, Diego Simeone's men conceded four in the match and this will be something which might be at the back of their mind. However the defending Spanish champions are more than capable of getting the better of their counterparts and here are five ways they can extend their unbeaten run against the European champions.
Griezmann must be at his best
The Frenchman has been a revelation since sealing a move from Real Sociedad in the summer. His pace, persistence, immaculate touch and finishing has boded well for his team who have been able to cope up well after Diego Costa's departure due to Griezmann's consistency.
His brace against Malaga last time out means that this has been the Frenchman's best goal scoring campaign in La Liga.
Griezmann's goal-scoring record prior to the match against Malaga
The 24 year old has scored some important goals for his team this season and has rescued them out of difficult situations. The Atletico Madrid faithful will be expecting another top performance from their man in form.
Exploit Madrid's weak defence
Even though Real boast a potent attacking force the same cannot be said about their defence which has been fragile for most part of the season. This is mainly due to the fact that Ancelotti tends to field six attacking players infront of the back four, thus leaving no protection for the backline especially with the full backs bombarding forward at every opportunity they get.
Furthermore with attacking prodigies Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo operating on the wings, Los Blancos are often left vulnerable on the flanks with neither of the world's most expensive players eager to perform their defensive duties.
Play with Confidence
Atletico's last match against Malaga resulted in a 2-2 draw which might have hurt their confidence. However there is no reason Diego Simeone's men shouldn't be shimmering with confidence ahead of the tie for they have got the better of Real Madrid all season long. It is thus important that Atletico Madrid players enter the pitch with the same desire and confidence which they have displayed in all of their matches against their fierce rivals this season.
Control the midfield
Atletico's resilient midfield has been their strength especially under the tenure of Diego Simeone. Veteran midfielder Tiago in particular has turned back years and has been exceptional in the middle of the park. His play breaking abilities have been integral to Atletico's success this season and the 33 year old has contributed with a few goals and assists as well which makes him a huge asset for the club.
However it is important that Atleitco's other midfielders contribute as well and put forth a tireless display like they have done all season. The likes of Koke and Arda Turan will have to balance their attacking and defensive duties as well if Atletico are to achieve a positive result.
Set pieces
Atletico have been devastating from set pieces this season having scored 22 times from dead ball situations. Much of this is down to an excellent set piece expert in Koke and the aerial presence of the likes of Mario Mandzukic, Torres and Diego Godin, however it is important to appreciate how hard Atletico players work to land themselves in a set piece situation.
Time and time again Diego Simeone's men have frustrated their counterparts by scoring early goals from corners and set pieces and this is a strategy they can use to their benefit once again when they face their arch rivals on Tuesday.
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